Notarizing for Minors
Children who participate in sports or other extracurricular activities at school may need to have forms notarized before participating in the activity. Notarizing for a minor is the same as for an adult.
The minor must appear in person before you and provide a government- issued ID that meets the criteria under Pennsylvania Notary Law.
Determining the minor’s identity can sometimes be a problem, especially if he or she does not have acceptable identification. If the minor does not have proper ID, you can use personal knowledge or a credible witness whom you know and who also knows the minor and who can swear to his or her identity.
You must determine the willingness and awareness of the minor signing the document. It is important for you to observe the minor’s appearance and behavior. If the minor appears intoxicated, unaware of his or her surroundings, frightened or under pressure, you should talk with him or her for a few minutes to determine if they understand the document presented for notarizing. If you feel uncomfortable notarizing the minor’s document, you can refuse service.
PAN recently fielded a question about notarizing a motor vehicle title for a minor who had a learner's permit. In Pennsylvania, only a photo or non-photo driver's license, photo or non-photo ID card or a military common access card (or DD-1173 for dependents) can be used as identification when titling and registering a vehicle.
The minor must appear in person before you and provide a government- issued ID that meets the criteria under Pennsylvania Notary Law.
Determining the minor’s identity can sometimes be a problem, especially if he or she does not have acceptable identification. If the minor does not have proper ID, you can use personal knowledge or a credible witness whom you know and who also knows the minor and who can swear to his or her identity.
You must determine the willingness and awareness of the minor signing the document. It is important for you to observe the minor’s appearance and behavior. If the minor appears intoxicated, unaware of his or her surroundings, frightened or under pressure, you should talk with him or her for a few minutes to determine if they understand the document presented for notarizing. If you feel uncomfortable notarizing the minor’s document, you can refuse service.
PAN recently fielded a question about notarizing a motor vehicle title for a minor who had a learner's permit. In Pennsylvania, only a photo or non-photo driver's license, photo or non-photo ID card or a military common access card (or DD-1173 for dependents) can be used as identification when titling and registering a vehicle.
